The Longview Fire Department Station 5 recently received a new rescue-style pumper engine after a lengthy ordering process. In keeping with tradition dating back to horse-drawn fire carriages, firefighters ceremoniously pushed the new engine into the station for the first time. This symbolic act honors the past while welcoming modern equipment designed to better serve the community.

The new engine enhances the station’s capabilities, especially for special operations like rope rescues, diving, and swift water rescues on the west side of town. Before bringing the apparatus inside, firefighters washed it with water from the old engine, symbolizing the transition. The department anticipates the new engine will serve the community effectively for the next 10 to 15 years.